California fire claims four lives

Tinder-dry conditions contributed to the rapid spread of the flames

Four US firefighters have died in a forest fire near Palm Springs, California, which authorities say was the work of arsonists.

Thousands of acres have burned around the town of Cabazon, some 125 miles (200km) east of Los Angeles.

Hundreds of families have been forced to leave their homes.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger paid tribute to the dead firefighters saying Californians were "heartbroken". A murder inquiry has been launched.

More than 700 firefighters were sent to the scene on Thursday.

The flames spread rapidly, fuelled by strong winds, high temperatures and dry conditions.

Reward

By late Thursday the fire was 5% contained, officials said.

The authorities believe it was started deliberately to cause maximum damage.

In pictures: California fire

"A deliberate arson fire that kills someone constitutes murder," Californian firefighters chief John Hawkins told reporters.

He offered a $100,000 (£52,000) reward for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible.

Mr Hawkins said between 400 and 1,000 people were trapped in a recreational vehicle park in the hills.

"They are going to encounter heat and smoke but they are probably going to be okay," he said.

Many others in the area have been forced to flee their homes.

"The flames were 30m (100ft) tall, burning on both sides of the road. I didn't think I would make it," local resident Charles Miner told Reuters news agency.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said: "All Californians are heartbroken... Anyone that is risking their own lives to save others is a true hero."

The weather service has issued a red flag warning for extreme fire danger in the next few days.

Officials say the battle will continue to be fought overnight but it may be next week before the blaze is under control.